Kirkland Lake Gold Miners’ second-year forward and Assistant Captain Josh Maine is having a great year to this point in the season. As of this past week Maine has eight goals and 16 assists for 24 points in 32 games.

Heading into the season he was appointed an Assistant Captain but he feels the leadership role hasn’t put any pressure on him.

“I feel a little bit more comfortable. My confidence is up and I know what it takes to be successful in the league. I think I am doing a little bit better this year point wise.” He adds his experience in the league has also made a difference.

Josh is from Windsor and when he arrived in KL he says there was a big transition coming to a much smaller community but adds he has enjoyed his time here.

“Last year was a little hard. I have never lived in such a small town. I was a little different transitioning into a small town, so it is a lot easier now.”

When he looks back at last year and compares the club to this years’ squad he says there are a number of differences.

‘I think we have a little more depth. We had a good group last year but I feel closer to (my teammates) this year. I think we are a lot better structured. And everybody wants to win. It is a lot tight group.”

As with most players at this caliber much of the year is focused on hockey so Maine says in the summers when he is back home he likes to catch up with friends and relax. He also likes to do some fishing when he can and adds he has done some skiing in this area.

Back in December the club travelled to the U.S. for three exhibition games and school tours. Maine said it was a great experience.

“It was awesome. It was good bonding for the guys. We got some looks from some scouts. It was a good way to end the first half of the season.”

Currently the Miners are first in the East Division but there are several teams nipping at their heels. As the club head’s towards the end of the regular season and into the play offs Maine says he and his teammates will have to take it one game at a time and play to the best of their abilities.